Exhaust burning things in luggage rack

bdbull · Post by **bdbull** » 30 Jun 2012, 17:32

We just came in from a 12 hour drive. We put our luggage on a hitch mounted rack for the entire trip and covered it with a tarp to protect it from the rain. When we stopped, I noticed the exhaust from the tailpipes had melted the tarp away and also melted the rubber on some of our luggage. First, should the exhaust be that hot? And secondly, any suggestions on how to prevent it for our trip back? I'm thinking of putting something in the rack to protect the luggage, but I'm not sure what type of material would be best. I obviously need something that's fireproof, but I don't know what to get.

9394volvo850s · Post by **9394volvo850s** » 30 Jun 2012, 22:28

maybe a fire blanket would work. and if it was winter time it probly wouldnt melt the tarp. but when its 80 to 100 out and the exhaust is coming out of the engine at 400+ degrees theres not a whole lot of time foe it to cool in this heat.

Post by **jimmy57** » 01 Jul 2012, 00:45

Yes the exhaust is that hot.
Turn down tips on the muffler would be the best thing to get the exhaust away from the luggage carrier.